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On Being

On Being with Krista Tippett takes up the big questions with scientists and theologians, artists and teachers -- some you know and others you'll love to meet. Each week a new discovery about the immensity of our lives.

The Next Great Baker: Delaware’s Dana Herbert

January 25, 2011

It may not have all the pizazz yet of the Dancing with the Stars glass ball trophy, but Dana Herbert must feel like he put all of his baking moves on display in his quest to become The Next Great Baker.

Herbert bested two other finalists to win $50,000 and a new car as some of the prizes on the TLC cable channel show. Herbert was chosen by the show’s host Buddy Valastro who also hosts the show Cake Boss. The 90 minute finale featured several challenges by the remaining three contestants. In the end the final two were told to produce a cake that would reflect the show’s host city, Hoboken, NJ. At the end Herbert’s cake was a favorite for Valastro’s mother, one of the judges, and of Valastro himself.

“Dana proved he had the skills it takes to be a great baker – creativity, drive, and perseverance. Through the challenges, he showed he can overcome obstacles, create amazing cakes, and impress clients. He’s going to be a great addition to the Carlo’s Bakery family,” said Valastro.

Herbert will likely take up the offer to work in the Hoboken bakery part time. He says his schedule is packed and the offer was left to the winner to work in Hoboken. He has operated “Desserts by Dana” in Bear since 2003. He credits a Delaware Today Magazine article in 2008 with giving his place some noterity. Herbert says his mom has told him, “the sky’s the limit” now. He and his wife are expecting their first child in the next week. He’s also served as head chef of the Delaware River and Bay Authority.

He told the show Monday night that he wanted to put some of the money aside for his child. Herbert and other bakers from the show are scheduled to be a part of the Polar Bear plunge set for February 6th in Rehoboth Beach. The baking event scheduled from 3-5pm is to beneift the Special Olympics of Delaware.